The mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive beauty that was the MR2 has gone down in history. Conceived as a small, economic yet undeniably sporty car, it made use of simple, straightforward hardware that kept the car accessible and capable. It was a potent brew for success - and what a success it was.
This British-market example, built in 1991, has spent 8 years with its current keeper, during which it's been regularly serviced and very well looked after. The car boasts its original, matching-numbers equipment, and - of course - is loaded with evocative '90s character.
We've no doubt that this spirited 'Mini-Ferrari' is going to prove a highly prized acquisition for the lucky new owner.
History and Paperwork
Built and registered in 1991
Nine former registered keepers
Purchased by current owner in 2016
Has been stored under cover off and on but used every year
Regularly serviced
MOT valid until April 2025
Indicates 145,882 miles
Personal plate is being sold with the vehicle
Due to being in storage off and on one or more tires are slightly flat spotted although not mentioned at recent MOT
Supplied with:
V5c document
Manual on CD-ROM
Most recent MOT certificate
Previous MOT certificates
A collection of invoices
The Condition
Evocative '90s lines with signature spoiler and pop-up headlights
No sign of any significant dents or dings
Some areas of paint bubbling here and there, as expected with 33-year-old paint
Badges and branding appear all present and correct
The pop-up headlights are lifting correctly
Targa-top panels appear to have a good, tight fit
Fitted with Tekno alloys
Sills have been professionally repaired/replaced
Underside appears solid with only light signs of corrosion
Cabin is nicely kept and very original
Some wear to the leather seats, mostly creasing and scuffing
However, we can't spot any rips or tears
Some areas of perished seal
The door bottoms show some surface corrosion
Dashboard in good overall order with clear, legible instruments
Modern JVC media player fitted
The Mechanics
2.0-Litre 3S-GE four-cylinder engine
Manual transmission with 5 gears
Engine is completely original and reportedly runs like new; uses no discernible amount of oil
Cam belt was replaced when purchased
Gear changes are smooth and clutch is well-maintained
Exhaust repairs have been carried out following an advisory on the recent MOT
Intake Manifold Switchover Valve system repaired after purchase
Slight differential whine - this has not worsened during ownership and is not presumed to be a sign of fault
The vendor reports that the car drives well with a free-revving engine, and corners like a go-cart
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
